Minimal invasive procedures for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Un update

Abstract

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a new term for a condition more renowned as atrophic vaginitis. It is used to describe a variety of menopausal symptoms and signs that are related to the physical changes of the vulva, vagina and lower urinary tract. The etiology of GSM is secondary to decreased levels of endogenous estrogens and represents a common but underreported condition. In this update we present novel minimal invasive procedures that may benefit GSM symptoms making particular focus on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment, hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment and energy-based devices (CO2 laser, YAG laser, radiofrequency device and high intensity focused ultrasounds). Currently, PRP has becoming popular as a non-operative treatment option for GSM symptoms. The principle underlying PRP treatment has to do with its ability to reproduce natural mechanisms of cell regeneration through the sequential secretion of numerous growth factors. Moreover, HA has been widely used as an important ingredient in topical hydrating and lubricating gels or injected for conditions such as dyspareunia. Lately, it has also been used as a new tool to treat age-related fat lysis of the female genitalia and especially the labia majora. Τhe Energy based devices have been recently suggested for the management of GSM. They utilize technologies such as laser, electromagnetic waves and high intensity focused ultrasounds to focus energy in the vaginal wall heating the targeted tissue at various depths without causing any pain or needing a recovery time. These minimal invasive procedures appear to be promising options for the treatment of GSM symptoms. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate more thoroughly the effectiveness and safety of these procedure and assess medium and long term results.